Loading...

Month: March 2024

Categories
Cholesterol

The latest guidelines for cholesterol levels: learn how they have changed…

“The latest guidelines for cholesterol levels: learn how they have changed…”

Cholesterol has long been recognized as a critical factor in heart health. New research continues to improve our knowledge on this topic.

Recent studies have further increased our awareness of how cholesterol impacts our cardiovascular system and prompted many shifts in the protocols for managing cholesterol at different levels.

Doctors have now adopted a more nuanced approach to heart care, even as researchers continue to discover new findings on the complexity of cholesterol’s effects on the body.

This blog post will examine the current cholesterol standards, exploring what has changed and what these developments mean for you. These updates can help you make informed decisions about your health and take proactive steps towards a healthier heart.

 

The most recent norms for cholesterol levels

Five key points can help you understand the changes in cholesterol criteria and their potential impacts.

 

1. The new threshold levels

The updated cholesterol management parameters introduce new threshold levels, marking a significant shift in how we categorize cholesterol readings.

According to Rena Goldman et al., writing in Healthline, the standards set by the American Heart Association (AHA) are divided into four categories – good, borderline, high, and low. This is done for four items – total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. As a result, we have the framework below. (All values are in mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) and are based on fasting measurements.)

 

Total Cholesterol:

  • Good: Less than 200 (the lower, the better)
  • Borderline: 200–239
  • High: 240 or higher
  • Low: n/a

 

HDL Cholesterol:

  • Good: Ideal is 60 or higher; but, 40+ for males or 50+ for females is acceptable
  • Borderline: n/a
  • High: 60 or higher
  • Low: less than 40 for men and less than 50 for women

 

LDL Cholesterol:

  • Good: Less than 100; below 70 if coronary artery disease is present
  • Borderline: 130–159
  • High: 160 or higher; 190 is considered very high
  • Low: n/a

 

Triglycerides:

  • Good: Less than 149; ideal is under 100
  • Borderline: 150–199
  • High: 200 or higher; 500 is considered very high
  • Low: n/a

 

2. Emphasis on LDL over total cholesterol

The recent rules underscore a paradigm shift in cholesterol management. There is a heightened scrutiny on low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, over total cholesterol levels.

This reflects a new perspective on LDL’s more direct role in the formation of arterial plaques, which can lead to atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. Unlike total cholesterol (which encompasses various types of cholesterol, including high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol), LDL is now recognized as a more accurate predictor of cardiovascular risk.

By focusing on LDL levels, healthcare providers can offer more targeted interventions. For instance, lowering LDL cholesterol through regimen changes or medication can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

According to Robert S Rosenson, MD, et al., writing in UpToDate, “While total cholesterol has been a primary focus in the past, current guidelines focus on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Higher levels of LDL cholesterol are associated with a greater risk of heart attack, stroke, need for stenting or coronary bypass surgery, and death. Studies over the past 50 years have shown that lowering LDL cholesterol leads to lower rates of these cardiac events.”

 

3. Age-specific recommendations

The new information about cholesterol highlights a crucial element of personalization by providing age-specific recommendations. It acknowledges that risk factors and optimal intervention strategies can vary across different stages of life.

 

  • For young adults, the focus is on preventive measures and daily life modifications to lower the risk of developing high cholesterol levels later in life.
  • For individuals aged 20 to 39, regular screening is advised, with a review of one’s familial risk and the potential for early-onset heart disease.
  • As individuals get into their 40s and beyond, the practices become increasingly stringent, recommending more frequent screenings. In some cases, the initiation of medication may be advised.

 

According to Jenna Fletcher, writing in Medical News Today, “Cholesterol levels tend to increase with age. Taking steps to reach or maintain healthy levels earlier in life may prevent them from becoming dangerously high over time. Years of unmanaged cholesterol levels can be challenging to treat.”

 

“Age-specific recommendations.”

 

4. Risk assessment tools

The integration of risk assessment tools in cholesterol management marks a major advancement toward personalized heart care.

One such is the ASCVD (Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease) Risk Calculator, which takes into account a variety of factors beyond cholesterol levels, including age, blood pressure, diabetes status, smoking history, and more, to estimate an individual’s 10-year risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event.

According to Mayo Clinic (who have their own ASCVD, as do many other noted cardiac centers), “This calculator estimates atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk and provides management strategies for patients aged 40 to 75 years, or lifetime risk for patients aged 20-39, with LDL levels >70 and <190 mg/dL.”

The use of such tools signifies a departure from a one-size-fits-all strategy, and acknowledges the complex interplay that contributes to heart health.

By leveraging these calculators, clinicians can accurately identify individuals who may benefit the most. They can offer a personalized strategy for preventive measures and treatment plans for heart-related risk.

 

5. Lifestyle modifications along with medication

The updated directions for cholesterol management also insist on giving higher value to factors such as diet, exercise, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and moderating alcohol intake.

While medication is crucial, daily routines are also important. This is particularly helpful for those with high cardiovascular risk or those who are unable to achieve target cholesterol levels through medications alone.

Lifestyle-centered interventions can improve cholesterol profiles, enhance the efficacy of medications, improve overall well-being, and prevent heart disease.

According to Susan Bernstein, writing in WebMD, “Stick with healthy lifestyle changes even if you do take meds. They can lower your cholesterol even more and may allow you to take a lower dose of medicine.”

 

“Lifestyle modifications along with medication.”

 

Monitoring cholesterol levels helps the heart

Knowing the contemporary cholesterol management regulations will be helpful when studying cholesterol’s impact and seeing how it can affect the heart. You will better understand why doctors recommend the need for proactive care.

Further, when people have one or more chronic conditions like obesity, cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension – along with other hereditary factors – these can all have a multiplicative impact on the heart.

This is why regular screenings for all these problems (and the heart) must not be neglected. The earlier such ailments or conditions are identified, brought under control, and monitored regularly thereafter, the greater the prospects of protecting the heart from harm.

 

Good health demands a strong heart

Applying the newest cholesterol recommendations is vital to safeguarding heart health. These provide a roadmap for both individuals and doctors, highlighting the importance of personalized care and preventive strategies.

Knowledge is power, and this applies to cholesterol-related developments also. By staying abreast of new directions and trends, you can more effectively navigate the complexities of managing the condition, ensuring a smoother life.

The journey to heart health is personal, but it’s also supported by collective awareness and advancements in cholesterol care. Embracing the most current advice as your resource for learning can help you make wiser decisions about your health and well-being. Stay heart-healthy.

 

 

References

  1. Goldman, Rena, et al. Healthline. “The Recommended Cholesterol Levels by Age.” Accessed: March 18, 2024. https://www.healthline.com/health/high-cholesterol/levels-by-age
  2. Rosenson, Robert S., MD, et al. UpToDate. “Patient education: High cholesterol and lipid treatment options (Beyond the Basics).” Accessed: March 18, 2024. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/high-cholesterol-and-lipid-treatment-options-beyond-the-basics/print
  3. Fletcher, Jenna. Medical News Today. “What should my cholesterol level be at my age?” Accessed: March 18, 2024. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/315900
  4. Mayo Clinic. “Mayo Clinic cardiovascular risk calculator.” Accessed: March 18, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/cardiovascular-diseases/calculators/cardiovascular-risk-calculator/itt-20534396
  5. Bernstein, Susan. WebMD. “Cholesterol Treatment: Medication and Lifestyle Changes.” Accessed: March 18, 2024. https://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/cholesterol-treatment-lifestyle-medication

 

Categories
Diabetes

The best dietary strategies for managing Type 1 diabetes: this is something to be mindful of…

“The best dietary strategies for managing Type 1 diabetes: this is something to be mindful of…”

Living with Type 1 diabetes presents a unique set of challenges, requiring meticulous management of one’s diet to control blood sugar levels effectively.

This autoimmune condition is characterized by the inability of the pancreas to produce insulin. It requires a deep understanding of how food impacts glucose levels.

Embracing the right dietary strategies can offer several benefits, such as enhanced blood sugar control, reduced risk of complications, and overall improved well-being.

In this blog post, as we explore dietary management, we aim to cover the essential methods for blood sugar regulation.

 

Practical dietary principles for controlling Type 1 diabetes

What can people with the disease do to enhance the quality of their diets significantly? Let’s look at five approaches.

 

1. Carbohydrate counting and control

A classic method to improve the diet is carbohydrate counting and control. Patients can match their insulin doses more precisely with their carbohydrate intake through this practice.

This process involves identifying and tallying the amount of carbohydrates in each meal or snack. Calculating the carbohydrate content of foods consumed makes it easier to maintain steady blood glucose levels, lowering the risk of both high and low blood sugar episodes.

This technique not only empowers diabetics to be more flexible in their food choices but also enhances their ability to plan meals and adjust insulin doses accurately.

According to Diabetes Education Online, “The total grams or amount of carbohydrate you need each day depends on your calorie goals, activity level, and personal preferences. Carbohydrates generally provide 45-65% of your daily calories. For most people with Type 1 diabetes, this ranges from 150-250 grams of carbohydrate a day. How you distribute this carbohydrate throughout the day can also make a difference in your blood sugar.”

 

2. Emphasizing low glycemic index foods

The glycemic index (GI) is a valuable measure for individuals with Type 1 diabetes, offering a way to assess how different foods impact blood sugar levels. Foods are ranked based on how they affect glucose levels.

Low-GI foods cause a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar compared to high-GI foods. Therefore, incorporating low-GI foods into the diet is particularly beneficial, as these foods can help maintain more stable blood glucose levels throughout the day.

The stability of blood sugar levels helps minimize the risk of both hyperglycemia (high blood pressure) and hypoglycemia (low blood pressure), thereby cutting down the need for frequent adjustments in insulin dosing.

According to Diabetes Australia, “Low-GI carbohydrate foods take longer to break down into glucose, enter the bloodstream slowly, and have less of an impact on blood glucose levels. These foods make you feel fuller for longer. Examples of low-GI foods include traditional rolled oats, dense wholegrain bread, lentils and legumes, sweet corn, milk, yogurt, wholewheat pasta, and most types of fresh fruit.”

 

“Emphasizing low glycemic index foods.”

 

3. Importance of fiber in the diet

Fiber plays a vital role in the dietary management of Type 1 diabetes because it significantly influences digestion and blood sugar control.

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes contain reasonable amounts of fiber. Eating a fiber-rich meal slows the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, leading to a more gradual rise in blood glucose levels.

This slowed digestion prevents sudden spikes in blood sugar. A high-fiber diet also offers other benefits beyond blood sugar regulation. It promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help maintain a healthy weight by eliminating the likelihood of overeating.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “If you have diabetes, a meal plan that includes the right amount of fiber can help you manage your diabetes and reduce your risk of complications. Talk with a dietitian or diabetes educator to help you create a diabetes meal plan that’s right for you. Understanding how to get more fiber into your diet can be hard at first, but with time and knowledge, you’ll learn how to get enough of this important nutrient.”

 

4. Balanced intake of healthy fats

Healthy fats in the diet can play a vital role in the overall health of individuals with this type of diabetes. They help support heart health and provide sustained energy.

The fats in foods such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil are healthy and essential for absorbing vitamins. They help lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and increase good cholesterol levels (HDL), bringing down the potential for heart disease, which individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk for.

Unlike carbohydrates, healthy fats have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels and offer a dependable energy source without the risk of rapid spikes. This balanced energy release is particularly beneficial for managing daily activities and exercise routines, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels over time.

According to the University of Florida Diabetes Institute, “New data suggests the ketogenic diet may aid in diabetes management. Keto is a low carb (less than 50g daily) diet with high amounts of healthy fats. The goal is to enter ketosis, a state where fat is the body’s main source of fuel. In Type 1 diabetes, a survey on low carb diets showed less complications and good blood sugar control.”

 

5. Hydration and diabetes management

Staying hydrated is essential for everyone, but it holds particular significance for individuals managing Type 1 diabetes. Adequate hydration positively impacts blood sugar levels.

Simple, plain water (unlike fruit juices or other fluids) does not raise blood glucose levels, making it the best choice for staying hydrated. It helps to dilute the high blood sugar levels in the bloodstream and supports the kidneys in excreting excess glucose through urine.

This process is vital for patients, as dehydration can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, exacerbating their problems. Proper hydration also helps ensure that the body’s cells function optimally, facilitating the effective use of insulin.

According to Gaby McPherson, M.S., RDN, LDN, writing in Eating Well, “Staying hydrated is vital to managing your blood sugars and preventing diabetes-related complications. The best way to know how much water you need is to talk to your medical provider, because everyone’s needs differ. Generally, about 13 cups of water per day for men and 9 cups for women is the goal to aim for unless your doctor has said to follow a fluid-restriction plan.”

 

“Hydration and diabetes management.”

 

Diet care for Type 1 diabetes helps with heart care, too

Healthy food habits and diet plans don’t just help with high blood sugar – they also help with various other medical issues.

For instance, a balanced nutrition regimen is essential for those with a combination of medical problems. Conditions like obesity, cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension – along with other hereditary factors – can all have a multiplicative impact on the heart.

Dietary guidance from a qualified nutritionist and advice from a doctor can help individuals develop a personalized eating plan for their specific needs. Proper intake of the right foods in the right quantities keeps various ailments under control, maintains heart health, and makes life more enjoyable.

 

Good health demands a strong heart

Progress toward optimal Type 1 diabetes management requires careful dietary programs that include carbohydrate intake, glycemic index, fiber, healthy fats, and hydration.

Each component offers a unique benefit, contributing to a holistic approach that supports blood sugar level optimization and heart health.

Further, by being strong-hearted about our eating discipline, we pave the way for a healthier, more balanced life. Stay heart-healthy.

 

 

References

  1. Diabetes Education Online. “Counting Carbohydrates.” Accessed: March 12, 2024. https://dtc.ucsf.edu/living-with-diabetes/diet-and-nutrition/understanding-carbohydrates/counting-carbohydrates/
  2. Diabetes Australia. “Carbohydrates, protein and fats.” Accessed: March 12, 2024. https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/living-with-diabetes/carbs-protein-fats/
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Fiber: The Carb That Helps You Manage Diabetes.” Accessed: March 12, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/role-of-fiber.html
  4. University of Florida Diabetes Institute. “Type 1 Diabetes Nutrition.” Accessed: March 12, 2024. https://diabetes.ufl.edu/outreach/resources/nutrition/type-1-diabetes/
  5. McPherson, Gaby, M.S., RDN, LDN. Eating Well. “How Much Water Do You Need to Drink Daily When You Have Diabetes?” Accessed: March 12, 2024. https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8061842/how-much-water-do-you-need-when-you-have-diabetes/

 

Categories
Diabetes

Emerging treatments and therapies in diabetes care: they are trends you may like to track…

“Emerging treatments and therapies in diabetes care: they are trends you may like to track…”

In recent years, the prevalence of diabetes has surged globally, marking it as one of the most formidable health challenges of our times. This trend creates the necessity for continuous progress in the management and care of diabetes.

Researchers are making many advances in their quest for cutting-edge diabetes treatments and therapies, driving the hope that their studies can revolutionize the current approaches we have for handling diabetes.

It’s imperative for all of us, including those affected by diabetes, to stay informed about the latest developments. Some innovations promise to enhance the quality of life and greatly significantly improve health outcomes.

In this blog post, we want to inform you about some of the most promising new directions trends in comprehensive diabetes care. We hope to empower you to stay positive through the confidence gained from sound knowledge.

 

5 advanced interventions and care strategies for diabetes

Five developments are setting new benchmarks for diabetes control. They are generating much interest.

 

1. Artificial pancreas systems

A breakthrough in diabetes, merging the latest in technology and medical science, are the “artificial pancreas systems”. They are expected to offer a much better quality of life for those with diabetes.

These systems operate by continuously monitoring glucose levels in the blood and automatically adjusting insulin delivery in response. This seamless integration of glucose monitoring and insulin administration simulates the pancreas’ natural insulin production.

The development of these systems has been driven by the need for solutions that reduce the burden of constant blood sugar monitoring and manual insulin administration.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, “A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) tracks blood glucose levels every few minutes using a tiny sensor that is inserted under the skin. The sensor wirelessly sends the information to a program stored on a smartphone or an insulin infusion pump. The program calculates how much insulin is needed and signals the insulin infusion pump when insulin needs to be delivered.”

 

2. CRISPR gene editing

At the forefront of genetic research and heralding a new era in the regulation of diabetes is “CRISPR gene editing.” This revolutionary technology allows scientists to edit parts of the human genome by removing, adding, or altering sections of the DNA sequence.

In the context of diabetes, CRISPR is being explored to correct genetic mutations that contribute to the development of the disease. This type of therapy is believed to be particularly useful in cases of monogenic diabetes, such as Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) and Neonatal Diabetes Mellitus.

The way CRISPR technology targets and modifies the specific genes responsible for these conditions creates much optimism, as it could lead to a future in which diabetes can be managed (or even probably eradicated, as some researchers claim).

According to Yan Cheng et al., writing in the Journal of Diabetes and its Complications, “A new direction has been opened in the treatment strategy of the disease by the development of CRISPR-Cas9, which holds great promise for the possibility of a complete cure at the genetic level.”

 

CRISPR gene editing

 

3. Smart insulin patches

Among the groundbreaking innovations in diabetes management are the “smart insulin patches,” which offer a sophisticated yet user-friendly approach to insulin therapy. These advanced devices are designed to simplify the complexities associated with traditional insulin dosing methods.

Embedded with tiny microneedles that painlessly penetrate the skin, these patches can monitor blood glucose levels in real-time. Upon detecting elevated glucose levels, they automatically release the appropriate amount of insulin into the bloodstream, ensuring that glucose levels are managed effectively without constant monitoring or manual injections.

This kind of progressive technology simplifies dosage control and improves patient compliance. Those with diabetes can benefit from a less intrusive, more seamless approach to managing their condition, potentially reducing the risk of complications associated with fluctuating blood sugar levels.

According to UCLA Samueli School of Engineering, “The smart patch monitors blood sugar (or glucose). It has doses of insulin preloaded in very tiny microneedles, less than 1 millimeter in length, that deliver the medicine quickly when the blood sugar levels reach a certain threshold. When blood sugar returns to normal, its insulin delivery also slows down.”

 

4. Oral insulin and GLP-1 receptor agonists

The shift towards medications, such as oral insulin and GLP-1 receptor agonists, is a key advancement in diabetes treatment and offers a promising alternative to traditional injection-based therapies.

Oral insulin mimics the natural secretion of insulin into the bloodstream and helps convey insulin in a form that the gut can effectively absorb. GLP-1 receptor agonists enhance insulin release in response to high blood glucose levels.

(Disclaimer: The information on this blog is not intended to be professional advice and is not intended to replace personal consultation with a qualified physician, pharmacist, or other health care professional. The reader should not disregard medical advice or delay seeking it because of something found on this blog.)

Making this transition to oral insulin dosage is a game-changer for patient convenience and compliance, as it reduces the psychological and physical burden associated with frequent injections. A very interesting side effect of this treatment approach is potential substantial weight loss – which may be why it is capturing widespread public attention.

According to M. Regina Castro, M.D., writing on the Mayo Clinic website, “Along with helping to control blood sugar and boost weight loss, GLP-1s seem to have other major benefits. People taking these drugs have seen their blood pressure and cholesterol levels improve. But it’s not clear whether these benefits are from the drug or the weight loss.”

 

5. Digital health platforms and apps

It’s no surprise that several digital health platforms and apps have arrived on the scene, making diabetes management easier by harnessing the power of technology.

There are now various digital tools that enable those affected by diabetes to meticulously track their blood sugar levels, dietary intake, and physical activity, providing real-time data that can be crucial. By allowing users to record and monitor their health parameters, these platforms enable people to take charge of their condition through timely decision-making.

Patients can also securely share digital health data with their doctors, allowing remote medical reviews or adjustments to treatment plans. Digital data from these tools ensure that healthcare plans are personalized based on the individual’s unique health profile and lifestyle.

According to Kacie Doyle-Delgado et al., writing in Clinical Diabetes, “Diabetes apps focus on one or more diabetes self-management tasks such as blood glucose monitoring, medication or insulin dosing, obtaining diabetes or general health education, and tracking nutrition or physical activity. Some apps include ‘health nudges’ such as recipes, articles, and tips for improving glucose control.”

 

“Digital health platforms and apps.”

 

How better diabetes management and control can also improve heart health

All these emerging technologies and therapies for diabetes could also help your heart. People who have medical problems like obesity, cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension – along with other hereditary factors – must realize that these conditions can all have a multiplicative impact on the heart.

Diabetes control is, therefore, critical to heart care. That’s why the medical fraternity and patients welcome every technological advance that can control – or even permanently cure – high blood sugar levels and their cascading effects on the rest of the body.

 

Good health demands a strong heart

Medical technological innovations are among the most exciting subjects for most people because every little bit of progress holds the promise of a better life for those suffering from ailments like diabetes. High blood sugar levels require extraordinarily diligent care and strict adherence to regimens. In short, they need patients to be strong-hearted.

But let us all be optimistic that soon, we may have some real and enduring solutions to diabetes. Meanwhile, here’s the ideal advice. Stay proactively alert about diabetes. Stay heart-healthy.

 

 

References

  1. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. “Artificial Pancreas.” Accessed: March 11, 2024. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/managing-diabetes/artificial-pancreas
  2. Cheng, Yan, et al. Journal of Diabetes and its Complications. “The promise of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in diabetes mellitus therapy: How gene editing is revolutionizing diabetes research and treatment.” Accessed: March 11, 2024. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1056872723001228
  3. UCLA Samueli School of Engineering. “UCLA Researchers Develop Coin-Sized Smart Insulin Patch.” Accessed: March 11, 2024. https://samueli.ucla.edu/smart-insulin-patch/
  4. Castro, M. Regina, M.D. Mayo Clinic. “GLP-1 agonists: Diabetes drugs and weight loss.” Accessed: March 11, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/expert-answers/byetta/faq-20057955
  5. Doyle-Delgado, Kacie, et al. Clinical Diabetes. “Use of Diabetes-Related Applications and Digital Health Tools by People With Diabetes and Their Health Care Providers.” Accessed: March 11, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7755044/

 

About

Copyright © 2022 Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. All rights reserved. Terms & Conditions